Cnidaria: meaning, definitions and examples
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Cnidaria
[ nɪˈdɛəriə ]
biological classification
Cnidaria is a phylum of simple aquatic animals that includes jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. These organisms are characterized by the presence of specialized cells called cnidocytes, which contain stinging structures used for capturing prey and defense.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Jellyfish are part of the Cnidaria phylum.
- Coral reefs are formed by the calcium carbonate skeletons of Cnidaria.
- Sea anemones reside in symbiosis with clownfish, both belonging to Cnidaria.
Translations
Translations of the word "Cnidaria" in other languages:
🇵🇹 Cnidária
🇮🇳 स्नायुविज्ञान
🇩🇪 Nesseltiere
🇮🇩 Cnidaria
🇺🇦 Кнідарії
🇵🇱 Czteronogi
🇯🇵 刺胞動物門
🇫🇷 Cnidaires
🇪🇸 Cnidarios
🇹🇷 Sölentiler
🇰🇷 자포동물
🇸🇦 شعبة الجوفمعويات
🇨🇿 Krytenka
🇸🇰 Krytonohé
🇨🇳 腔肠动物门
🇸🇮 Živčarji
🇮🇸 Nettudýr
🇰🇿 Желілік жануарлар
🇬🇪 კნიდარიუმი
🇦🇿 Knidaria
🇲🇽 Cnidarios
Word origin
The term 'Cnidaria' is derived from the Greek word 'knidē,' which means 'nettle' or 'stinging hair,' referring to the distinctive stinging cells found in these organisms. The classification of Cnidaria began in the early 19th century, as scientists aimed to categorize different forms of marine life. The phylum is recognized for its members having a simple body structure, typically exhibiting radial symmetry. Cnidaria includes various classes such as Hydrozoa, Scyphozoa, and Anthozoa, which showcase the diversity of forms and life strategies within this group. The taxonomy of Cnidaria has evolved, particularly with advancements in molecular biology, leading to better understanding of relationships among various species. Cnidarians play vital roles in marine ecosystems, especially as primary producers and as part of coral reef systems, highlighting their ecological importance.